Nigeria Customs Service to Implement 100% Scanning at Onne

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announced plans to commence 100% scanning of cargoes imported through Onne Port in Rivers State. Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, revealed this initiative during a news conference in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, ahead of the 2026 Public Relations Week.

The scanning aims to improve surveillance and track dangerous cargo, including arms, ammunition, and pharmaceuticals. Maiwada noted that all goods arriving at Onne Port will be pre-scanned, with images sent to the NCS headquarters in Abuja for further analysis if necessary.

This follows the successful implementation of 100% scanning at Apapa Ports in Lagos State. In September 2024, NCS Comptroller General Bashir Adeniyi declared a state of emergency at Onne Port due to the seizure of weapons and illicit drugs, leading to a three-month emergency protocol for scrutinizing cargoes.

Maiwada emphasized that despite the emergency status, importation and clearance operations would continue at the port.